Monday 26th August, Trail #2589. The hash trail this week starts and ends from:
The Dun Cow, Horton, Banbury, OX15 6DA.
“Look to… she’s going… she’s gone!”
That’s the cry of the bell ringers as they wind up the big bells and let them swing low. Nothing to do with the trail this week but thought you might like some trivia to accompany this invite. It sounds oddly cool too!
Anyway… our social outdoor stroll this week starts and ends from The Dun Cow in Horton.
The Pub
The pub serves up local ales, good food and warmth a plenty for all travellers new, old and familiar. Steve and Rebecca have been at the helm from May 2019, and we haven’t managed to put them off yet.
Now the Dun Cow as a name, originates from the medieval folklore of Northern England. The story goes that a gigantic cow or ox, described as being of a dun (dull brown) colour, roamed the area. This creature was considered both awe-inspiring and fearsome due to its size. Furthermore, the Dun Cow provided endless milk to those who milked it, provided they were reasonable in their requests. However, it was ultimately killed by a local hero or knight after it became enraged or when someone attempted to take more than their fair share. The story was meant to teach lessons about greed and the consequences of upsetting the balance of nature.
And there you have it… a sign or a lesson for the Hasher if ever there was:
Rule #1 to be measured and considerate in thy quest for Ale…Too many beers and the Cow gets angry 😉
The Village
Horton – the village, is famous for its connection to the Poet John Milton, who lived in the village between 1632 and 1640 (a whole 8 years?) [and that is the best Google can do for this]! The church, a beautiful 12th Century Church (St. Michael’s Church) is where Milton’s mother is buried.
The Hares
Sniffer and Down There – take no rest for the Bank Holiday [presumably they will get double down-downs as a sort of double-time style ?!?]. Does two Hares mean double the distance or double the false trails or double the dobs of flour? Only time and an evening on the trails on Monday night will tell. Maybe they have seen the Dun Cow on their trail setting and will lead us safely round the perimeters. Look closely into their eyes… if you see fear then you know – they’ve seen the Dun Cow. If you see mischief, a twinkle and a smurk or two – then be afraid and let your loved ones know you might be late home …
The Dun Cow roamed with grace untamed,
A symbol of what can’t be named.
And in her presence, all could see,
A tale of beer, flour trails and mystery.
WHAT’S NOT TO LIKE?
OnOn
Easily LED
(O-O-X)
